Kristian Thorborg

Kristian Thorborg is a Clinical Professor at the Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, with a dual appointment at the Capital Region of Denmark. He is also affiliated with Amager and Hvidovre Hospital, where he works in the Sports Orthopedic Research Center and Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. His work bridges clinical practice and academic research in sports medicine and orthopedics.

Professor Thorborg's primary research interests focus on prevention of sports injuries, strength training and corrective exercise in rehabilitation, muscle and tendon injuries, and specific orthopedic conditions including hip and groin pain, knee and shoulder arthroscopy, femoroacetabular impingement syndrome, ACL injuries, meniscus injuries, and subacromial impingement syndrome. His research has significant clinical applications in sports medicine and rehabilitation.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong emphasis on evidence-based approaches to sports injury prevention and rehabilitation. A notable trend is his focus on isometric exercises, particularly for hip and groin conditions, with several studies examining the Copenhagen Adduction exercise. His research often involves clinical trials with athletic populations, particularly rugby players, and addresses important questions about strength measurement, injury prevention protocols, and long-term outcomes of orthopedic conditions.

Professor Thorborg has received numerous scientific awards and recognitions:

• Danske Fysioterapeuters ph.d-pris (2008)
• Young Investigators Award (2009)
• Best Abstract award for research on hamstring injuries in football (2010)
• Best Abstract award for the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) development (2011)

As Deputy Editor of the British Journal of Sports Medicine and a board member for the PhD-program in Basic and Clinical Research in Musculoskeletal Sciences (MUSKOS) at the University of Copenhagen, Professor Thorborg plays a significant role in academic leadership and mentorship. His research profile shows extensive collaboration with international colleagues across numerous clinical trials and studies.

Professor Thorborg is affiliated with the Sports Orthopedic Research Center – Copenhagen at Copenhagen University Hospital Hvidovre, Denmark, and the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Research unit. His current research includes projects on the treatment and prevention of hip, groin and knee injuries in adolescent and young physically active populations, as well as large randomized controlled trials optimizing rehabilitation for patients with shoulder impingement.